Power Grid Voltage Control Failures Cause Iberian Blackout

The insufficiency of voltage control in Spain's power grid was responsible for the large-scale blackout experienced in Spain and Portugal on April 28, Spain's Energy Minister, Sara Aagesen, stated on Tuesday. A detailed report is set to be released, shedding light on the investigation findings.

Aagesen highlighted that certain power plants failed in their duty to regulate the grid's voltage, as required by law, exacerbating the blackout's impact. She noted that these plants were compensated to manage voltage but did not absorb enough reactive power to prevent the crisis. This failure led to severe consequences including transportation chaos and stranded citizens.

The widespread blackout lasted several hours, disrupting daily life and highlighting significant flaws in voltage management within the power grid. Despite initial concerns, the investigation found no indications of a cyberattack, providing some relief in terms of external threats to energy security.

(With inputs from agencies.)